Dilamar

When the guys at the chacara reach the 7-month mark in their 9-month recovery program, they are allowed to make their first visit to the home of their family and loved ones. Recently we had a unique situation with the latest guy to reach 7 months - Dilamar is his name. He's on the right here; I'm doing my famous Rehbein closing-my-eyes-pose for photos.

It was the first time I had ever met one of these guys who literally had nowhere to go for his home visit. Dilamar's father and one of his brothers are in prison; his mother is deceased; his wife and son want nothing to do with him; his other brothers have no contact with him. Imagine, a 40-year old man, who should be at the peak of his life experiences, yet apparently had no one who wanted to spend time with him. I talked with Waleska and Paulo Renato and Isaias, and we decided to receive Dilamar in our home on Sunday, October 25 for his first visit. It was a memorable experience!

Here is the crew that participated in the visit: Spencer, Dilamar, Paulo Renato, Valter (a recent chacara graduate who preached for us on Sunday morning), Christian, and myself. This particular Sunday was a Celebration meeting for all of our house churches. Valter gave a powerful sermon based on the book of Haggai and his own life experiences. Dilamar shared some of his story with the church family and they welcomed him with open arms. It was one of the best celebrations I've experienced here in POA. The intensity of love and commitment to God and to one another was fantastic.

When guys come to your house, you have to feed them - and I did, with George Foreman burgers and oven-baked fries! Needless to say, no one walked away hungry. All of us were encouraged by our fellowship on this special day, but Dilamar was encouraged most of all. Dilamar realized that God truly is on his side and that he has a family in Christ, the church local and worldwide, that cares for him. Pray for this special brother, that he will continue to persevere in his recovery!